Aimhigher Cumbria and the STEM curriculum

REAP is evaluating Aimhigher Cumbria's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) funded provision and its contribution to awareness, aspiration and attainment of primary and secondary pupils in Cumbria. It is a case study of enabling, process and outcome indicators concerning Cumbria learners' transition from primary to secondary school/post 16 to Higher Education with respect to STEM subjects. Most of the STEM activities were provided by Cumbria STEM Centre Ltd.

"Crest in a day: flight" is a newly developed activity from Cumbria STEM Centre Ltd. To obtain a Bronze Crest award, pupils undertake 10 hours of study which includes a full day of in-school activities, individual research prior to this day and group presentations of their findings after the event.  During the in-school event, pupils design, make and test a number of paper planes in order to compare their aerodynamic qualities.  Pupils also make and test paper rockets which pupils customise from pre-packaged kits.

REAP have also evaluated Aimhigher Cumbria's Robotics activities (July 2008 Newsletter summary - pdf 840 kB) and Up2Uni, a staff development programme to develop the role of teachers in guidance and encouraging pupils.

Interested in REAP evaluation?

To discuss how REAP might support evaluation of Aimhigher projects or similar widening participation activities please contact Ann-Marie Houghton. Tel: 01524 592907

Email: Email address protected by JavaScript. Please enable JavaScript to contact me.